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Dia De Bloglandia

Hola Twinklestars! Welcome to the celebration of life that once was, and yet, continues to be, via El Dia De Los Muertos, or, as it is commonly known, the Day of the Dead.

The focus is on gathering family and friends to pray for and
remember those who have died. The celebration
occurs on November 1st and 2nd coinciding with the Catholic holiday of All Saint's Day on November 1st and All Soul's Day on November 2nd.

Traditions include building private
altars honoring the deceased, using sugar skulls,
marigolds, and the
favorite foods and beverages of the departed, and visiting graves with
these as gifts. However, there are many variations on the skulls, and even the ofrendas; during Dia De Bloglandia, our lovely hostess
Stephanie RodRigvitz forgives us if we don't stick with tradition as much...and it's perfectly okay to take creative license to bring your own vision to fruition...

Grandma Imogene and Grandpa Andy were teens when they got married, and were the epitome of romance (diamonds were Grandpa's favorite gift to Grandma) and remained so until Grandpa's passing at age 73. Grandma was heartbroken, even after her own ya-ya sistergirls took her away to Paris....she passed away three years later, at age 73, to follow her true love....

My grandfather on my mom's side, Fred, was a preacher man-the cross is for him, as is the typewriter, as he was quite fond of surfing the world wide web. He had the best sense of humor, a quick wit and a fun and thoughtful, compassionate and kind human being...and of course you know Frida, painted by the lovely Ms. Valencia. I like to think that these 2 great minds, Grandpa Fred and Frida, found each other in the after world, and had many conversations about art and life...

My Stepfather Jimmy was a fisherman, a poet, and a philosopher.......you could talk about God or politics or Andy Griffith, all while eating the delicious redfish dip he'd make. Or turkey noodle soup, day after Thanksgiving...He was there for you whenever you needed him.

I never met Cowboy's dad, but i feel like I know him. It is he who taught Cowboy to love the land, and grow things in what seems like clay. And to work with his hands, and hammer and nails and wood.....

...and Cowboy's mother, aptly named Jewel, just passed this spring. She had strong faith, and was a poet. She also loved the home shopping network ☺. She believed in ghosts, and I wonder if she might say hello in the next few days...

(I got this lovely shrine from Tristan at Enchanted Revelry, I just loved it the minute I saw it.)

Please join Stephanie's party, and celebrate the people in your life who continue to bring meaning and love into your heart, even if they have passed on.

Comments

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Oh Miss Roo,

Thank you SO MUCH for this truly enchanting description of El Dia De Los Muertos and the loving tribute to your dearly departed. The photographs were so visually stunning I couldn't take my eyes off them!

Of course, everyone has heard of the Mexican festival, but I didn't know the details. I think I would like to go to Mexico again and enjoy this festival in an authentic way.... with mucho tequila!

My favorite part of your story was Grandma Imogene and Grandpa Andy. What a sweet romance they shared! And the diamonds! Grandpa Andy was a very wise man and obviously knew how to treat a lady.

You are a treasure Miss Roo. I am so happy our paths have crossed and that I just need to look to the left to catch a glimpse of you. Maybe someday in person even.

That was very sweet my dear. There are so many of them, that you could have a blog twice as long couldn't you? Your great-grandmother Lannie.....what a dear soul and great inspiration. Aunt Shirley, a beautiful woman, full of life all her days here on earth...I'm sure all those mentioned appreciate being remembered. And all the rest in our hearts...I love them all and miss them terribly. We honor you our dear spirits.....we appreciate all you taught us in life here on earth. And we appreciate your continued watching over us and extending help from time to time. xoxoxoxoxoxoxoox
I also want to say I love you to the living.....especially you my dear Rhonda Roo!
love from your proud mommy g!